Cambodia, a diverse country with a captivating history, is unveiled during this trip. After arrival in bustling Phnom Penh we head to picturesque Kampot, a land of paddy fields and pepper plantations. We pause for lunch at Kep Bay to enjoy views across the Gulf of Thailand before transferring to Koh Kong, at the foot of the Cardamom Mountains. Returning to Phnom Penh we visit the Royal Palace and the sobering ‘Killing Fields’ before departing for Battambang, a well-preserved colonial town. Finally, we discover the temple complex of Angkor with a sunset visit and a bike ride to the less-visited temples.

Responsible Travel

At Exodus we believe in the power of Responsible Travel.

Every time we travel, we are part of a global movement that creates jobs, builds more sustainable societies, encourages cultural understanding and safeguards common natural and cultural heritage. To learn more about what Responsible Travel means to Exodus click here…

Itinerary

Day 1

Day 2

Sousadei! Welcome to Cambodia. Dependent on arrival time there will be the opportunity to explore the capital or simply relax by the hotel pool. There will be a short meeting scheduled to introduce you to Cambodia followed by an optional welcome dinner.

Ohana Hotel or similar, Comfortable Hotel

Day 3

Leaving Phnom Penh we travel into rural Cambodia to Kampot which sits on a picturesque river. On the way we stop at Phnom Chisor mountain temple set on a hill with a magnificent view. The temple was built in the 11th century by King Suryavarman I. It is made of laterite, bricks and carved sandstone. Upon arrival we check into our centrally located hotel, our base for the next two nights, before boarding a local boat for sunset trip on the Kampot River. The river runs through the centre of the town and can flow in both directions as it is closely connected to the sea.

The Columns Hotel or similar, Comfortable hotel

Day 4

Today we venture out into the countryside to discover the highlights of the Kampot Province including local salt fields, rice fields, fruit and pepper plantations, and the Phnom Chhnork caves. Kampot is also famed for being one of the largest producers of the durian fruit; the durian, once opened, has a smell so pungent it is illegal to take indoors in some South East Asian countries! After exploring the countryside we visit Kep “ghost town” - previously a popular seaside resort Kep now houses old resort buildings which have bullet holes in from the Khmer Rouge period, a reminder of the not so distant past. Kep is once again regaining popularity with local tourists and you might like to join them in having lunch in the simple crab shacks that line the beach. Serving up the freshest seafood around the crab in Kampot pepper sauce is not to be missed!

The Columns Hotel or similar, Comfortable Hotel

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 5

Leaving Kampot in the morning we travel to Koh Kong which is in the Cardamom protected area, one of the world's biodiversity hotspots, and the second largest area of rainforest in mainland Southeast Asia. Getting closer to Koh Kong the route winds its way through roads with jungle on either side and past elephant crossing signs – the Cardamoms are part of the elephant migration path.

En route we have a picnic lunch and walk up to nearby Ta Tai waterfall (in the wet season) or have a short boat ride to Koh Andet (in the dry season).

Koh Kong town is based on the Koh Poi river around a 10 minute drive from casuarina and palm-lined white sandy beaches.

Koh Kong Bay Hotel or similar, Comfortable Hotel

Meals included:
Breakfast
Lunch

Day 6

Today is free for optional trips and activities. Koh Kong province is fast establishing itself as Cambodia’s eco-tourism destination so there are a wealth of activities to choose from; take a trip to to Tatei waterfall, visit the Peam Krasaop Wildlife Santuary or take a rustic local boat trip to Koh Kong island, the perfect opportunity to relax on a coconut-palmed lined beach and to swim in the crystal clear waters.

Koh Kong Bay Hotel or similar, Comfortable Hotel

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 7

After breakfast we begin our journey to Phnom Penh. Located on the banks of the Tonle Sap and the Mekong River Phnom Penh is home to 2.2 million of Cambodia’s residents. Despite being the capital it still retains a laid-back typically Cambodian feel where the pace is slower than some might expect. There will however be a fair amount of motorbike dodging as the pedestrian is not favoured on the winding side streets! We continue our exploring with a sunset cyclo (bicycle rickshaw) lap of the town giving us a unique view of this bustling city and providing us with an easy orientation. Stopping to see some of the local street food being served on the waterfront we have the chance to try some local specialities. We continue on to finish at a restaurant serving tasty Khmer cuisine. There are also many waterfront bars worth a visit; the Foreign Correspondents Club (FCC) overlooking the Tonle Sap River and only a short walk from the hotel is recommended.

Ohana Hotel or similar, Comfortable Hotel

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 8

The town still retains a frontier atmosphere and today we have a full day of sightseeing in the capital city. The day will include the beautiful Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, so named for the solid silver tiles that make up the floor. Thankfully the complex escaped the worst excess of the Khmer Rouge rule. Similar in style and scale to the Grand Palace in Bangkok, the Royal Palace has significantly fewer visitors and there is plenty of time to wander among the traditional buildings. There is also time today to shop at either the impressive Central Market or the sprawling Russian Market, a souvenir hunter's paradise! We visit Tuol Sleng museum or S21 (Museum of Genocide), which graphically displays the horrors of the 4 years when Pol Pot systematically ordered the murder of between 2 and 3 million Cambodians. Tuol Sleng was originally a school but was used as a torture and interrogation centre between 1976 and 1979. It is a sobering and disturbing place to visit. Please be aware that the images at the museum are very graphic. We complete our day with a moving late afternoon visit to the 'killing fields' of Choeung Ek. A football-field-sized area surrounded by farmland, the killing fields contain mass graves for perhaps 20,000 Cambodians, many of whom were tortured before being killed.

Ohana Hotel or similar, Comfortable Hotel

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 9

Our destination today is Battambang (pronounced Battambong). Cambodia's second-largest city, Battambang, is centred around an attractive riverside hub with traces of French elegance, friendly Khmer people and well-preserved colonial architecture. There are also some striking examples of Art Deco architecture; Central market, the Victory swimming pool and the train station to name a few. En route to Battambang we have the chance to stop at a pottery village, a silversmith village and a marble handicraft workshop for an insight into local handcrafts and industry. In the evening we’ll enjoy an orientation walk along the Sangke River bank and observe daily life of the local people.

Classy Hotel or similar, Comfortable Hotel

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 10

Today we cycle through countryside to explore Cambodia’s rural way of life. Stopping at villages to see local cottage industries, traditional scarf weaving and traditional farming there will be countless opportunities to interact with the villagers who may be surprised to see us travelling as they do, on a bicycle! We’ll reward our morning’s efforts with fruit and a refreshing coconut. The cycle is easy riding on flat terrain with lots of stops along the way. If you would like to opt out of the cycling and hop on a tuk-tuk instead please let the leader know at the beginning of the trip so alternative arrangements can be made.

Classy Hotel or similar, Comfortable Hotel

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 11

After breakfast we head to the town of Siem Reap with stops at the local market at Pouk. Cambodian markets tend to be fragrant affairs – on offer here is Cambodian ‘cheese’; one of the strongest smelling cheeses around - perhaps because it is made entirely of fish! The local market is nonetheless a great insight into the daily life of the Cambodian people. We will also make a brief stop at the Angkor Silk Farm for a introduction into the life of a silkworm and the production process of this fine textile. This afternoon we walk past the Royal Gardens and along the Siem Reap River front to the Old Market helping us get our bearings in this charming small town. You may like to finish with a visit to the Artisans DÁngkor workshop – a not-for-profit organisation which provides vocational training for young people in traditional Cambodian arts.

Angkor Holiday Hotel or similar, Comfortable Hotel

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 12

Our first full day of temple touring is by private bus so we can visit some of the outlying temples such as Banteay Srei. Known as the Women’s Citadel this small temple complex with intricate carvings is devoted to Brahma. Particularly impressive are Banteay Kdei and Ta Prohm, still covered in jungle, similar to how it was when it first came to light. Discovered for the world in the 1870s, (although always known by the local people), and famously described as being 'grander than anything of Greece or Rome' by the French explorer Henri Mouchot, this world heritage site stands alongside the Pyramids and Machu Picchu as one of the world's most spectacular archaeological sites. Tonight is free to enjoy one of the many restarants on the famous 'Bar Street' boulevard in central Siem Reap. You may also wish to marvel at the skills of the Phare Cambodian Circus troop for an entirely different option or chose to watch some traditional Apsara dancing.

Angkor Holiday Hotel or similar, Comfortable Hotel

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 13

This morning we get set up on mountain bikes for an easy but active ride around the Angkorian ruins that are closer to town. On the bicycle we can avoid some of the crowds and get a unique perspective on this amazing site. If you want to rise early you can arrange with your leader to take in Angkor at sunrise prior to the day’s cycling. We will visit the incredible Angkor Wat, the many temples inside the Royal City of Angkor Thom, including the magnificent Bayon, which is comprised of 54 intricately carved towers in one single temple. The Bayon certainly left an impression on an early traveller in 1925 who stated 'we stand before it stunned. It is like nothing else in the land.' Angkor is a truly magical experience and a photographer's paradise, one of the real highlights of our trip. The ride will be approx. 25km with plenty of opportunities for refreshment stops and to take photos. If you would like to opt out of cycling and instead cool down in the support vehicle, please let your leader know who will be able to arrange the logistics of this and the rest of the group.

Essential Info

Visas

Cambodia

Arriving By Flight:

An electronic visa (e-Visa) facility is available via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Co-operation website at the cost of $37.

A tourist visa can be obtained on arrival for British nationals at most border crossings. Two passport photos are required. The cost is US$30, although an additional express fee of US$5-6 may be incurred at the border. For further information see the FCO site and check under Cambodia / 'Entry Requirements'.

Arriving Overland:

A tourist visa can be obtained on arrival for British nationals at most border crossings. Two passport photos are required. The cost is US$30, although an additional express fee of US$5-6 may be incurred at the border. For further information see the FCO site and check under Cambodia / 'Entry Requirements'.

Important advice regarding E-Visas

Please be advised, e-Visas are not accepted at all border check points when travelling overland. This applies to the following borders/trips:

Vaccinations

Cambodia

There are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Polio, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Typhoid, Hepatitis A. The risk of malaria is slight but you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice.

Eating and Drinking

All breakfasts included.

Food is cheap in Cambodia and you can generally avoid the spicier food if you wish. Cambodia's food is all about the contrasts—sweet and bitter, salty and sour, fresh and cooked. It shares many dishes with its neighbors, and you'll find noodle soup similar to Vietnamese pho, Thailand's refreshing salads and sour soups, Indian-inspired curries, and noodles and stir fries handed down from years of Chinese migration. From Cambodia's days as a French Indochina colony, there's a national love of coffee, pate, and good bread. Baguettes are served with soup, made into sandwiches, and sold by men riding bicycles carrying baskets of long loaves. Western food is also available in most of the places visited.

Weather

The weather will be hot and humid throughout with temperatures during the day usually between 28ºC and 34ºC. It is only a little cooler at nights. The dry season is late October to May and the monsoon is normally between May and October; though there is an obvious transitional time between those settled periods. The dry season is as it sounds, with hot days and generally clear skies, though you can expect the odd shower.

Phnom Penh

Is this trip for you?

This is a busy itinerary that visits the main highlights of Cambodia. We travel by private minibus to allow you to experience as much as possible of this beautiful and diverse county in a short space of time. We have kept the travelling time to a minimum however a couple of day have approx. 5 hours transfer journeys. We use 3 star hotels throughout our tour. It is important to take into consideration that outside of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap Cambodia is fairly underdeveloped for tourism.

Reviews

Cambodia Adventure

This holiday was my first experience of a third world country and as such was extremely interesting. In spite of some poverty, all the hotels were built in recent years and were of a high standard. Our experiences were varied: chaotic traffic in the cities, visits to country villages, two days on cycles, boat trips, learning about the history of Cambodia's civil war and how the country if recovering, trekking up a mountain and seeing mangroves. We enjoyed visiting the famous temple at Angkor Wat and several lesser temples in the region. The people were friendly and welcoming.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I loved the day cycling round the vilages to see rice paper being made, bamboo tubes being filled with sticky rice, tropical fruits being sliced and dried in the sun, fish being processed (very smelly but interesting). All the local people worked long days for little money, but were very smiley and welcoming. At one stop we had a lovely snack of tropical fruit.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our leader was excellent, and able to give us plenty of information. He took care of us very well. We had a few 'incidents' such as a flat tyre and one member of the party being unwell, but he coped very efficiently with everything. He guided us to good restaurants and was always on the watch, making sure we were all there and happy. His own family had been badly affected by the civil war, so he was able to talk knowledgeably about Cambodian history - particularly when we visited the 'Killing Fields' and a Khmer Rouge prison.
His English was fluent, though he had quite an accent. However, this was no problem as we all quickly tuned into it.
Like so many Cambodians he was small, smiley and unflappable.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take the advice you are given to guard your belongings carefully. For example, wear a money belt or use a concealed pocket. Wear bags across your shoulder and hold them. (We had a couple of 'incidents').
We were not too plagued by mosquitoes, but I would advise using DEET whenever outside.
Carry some toilet paper to use in the squat toilets. These are usually clean enough and often have running water, but often lack paper.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I thoroughly enjoyed my holiday and the variety of experiences we had.
As I've mentioned, I loved the first cycling day, but the second one was round the lesser temples and we were cycling on busy roads with vans, motorbikes and tuk-tuks everywhere. I found it scary and fumey. I did have the option to ride in the bus, so I'm not complaining, but I wonder if Exodus should re-think this day.
THANK YOU EXODUS FOR A GREAT HOLIDAY IN LOVELY SUNSHINE - We came home to snow!

Cambodia Adventure

I cannot recommend this trip highly enough. It provided a fascinating glimpse into life in Cambodia. Such a wide variety of experiences: river boat trips, crafts people sharing their life stories with us, being welcomed into the home of one family for dinner, markets, schools, processions, dancing displays, acrobats, musicians, royal palaces and, of course, the world-famous temples at Angkor, Thom etc. Everywhere we went people greeted us with a beaming smile and a generosity of spirit that will live long in the memory. Food was delicious and hotels very good, way beyond my expectations - most even had swimming pools - and staff were always delightful, efficient and extremely helpful.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Perhaps it was the resilience of the Cambodian people after such a traumatic recent history - a lesson to us all.

What did you think of your group leader?

Chana was excellent , not just because of her command of the English language, but also because of her general enthusiasm, her sense of humour and her knowledge of her country's culture and history. She organised everything to perfection - nothing was too much trouble for her.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for some distressing moments at the Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cambodia deserves a helping hand from tourism so I would encourage folk to go there!

Cambodian Adventure

An excellent trip which combined awesome historical sites, modern cultural encounters, fun activities in great natural surroundings all with fantastic food shared with great people, an excellent guide and a steady driver to hold it together.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Aside from the chilling poignancy and reflective moments of the killing fields in Phnom Phenh, cycling around the Battanbang countryside, meeting farmers, strolling around local market and trying bamboo rice on the roadside as well as enjoying a delicious homestay lunch. In the evening watching millions of bats leaving their cave was a natural wonder.
Although Angkor Wat was impressive because of its size, Banteay Srey Wat's amazing intricate stone carvings, Ta Prohm and Banyon were astounding.
Don't miss the $20 day trip to Koh Kong island's deserted tropical beach with an amazing lunch cooked by the boat crew.

What did you think of your group leader?

Lee was a very knowledgeable, patient, easy going and a fun leader who took our group to excellent restaurants allowing us to sample delicious Cambodian food.
During the course of the trip he shared his culture and told us much about the ancient and recent history of his country and some of the experiences of his family. A perfect combination of efficiency and cool!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

For an easy life, don't bring cash Pounds or Euro's. Almost everything is priced in US dollars, and most cash machines dispense US dollars. Shops and restaurants all have lots of small denomination dollars, or will give small amounts of change in Riels.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cambodian Adventure

Interesting and enjoyable holiday,

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were 5, The bamboo railway for man's ingenuity, the killing fields for man's inhumanity, the smaller villages for the hard working local population for low wages. Angkor Wat for being Angkor Wat, and the people on the trip with similar interests and sense of fun.

What did you think of your group leader?

Very good, well up with history of country, religious heritage, honesty when giing information, and organisation, never seemingly to to get flustered.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

In their documentation I did not think Exodus make it clear about currency, the Currency of Cambodia may be the Riel, but the currency on the street, shops and used by Exodus for any optional extras is the US dollar, I would advise taking US dollars, do not bother changing any money into Riel, apart from a few traders in remote villages, everyone uses and quotes dollars, in Restaurants your bill will automatically come priced in dollars and Riel give dollars you will get change in dollars, with small amounts in Riel, everywhere prices are marked in Dollars. The hotels happily changed larger bills into smaller notes. If you can get some small dollar bills take them.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I am not a foody, friends say the best they get out of me is "it was OK" but food and its presentation in the places we ate at was excellent, best food I have had on holidays around Asia. Would recommend the Kampot Pepper dishes.
The accommodation we stayed in was excellent.

Cambodia.... wow!!

Cambodia exceeded all of my expectations. I went out over my 40th birthday to escape having to have a party and had the best holiday I've ever had! Brilliant mix of fun and history

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples. I personally loved the jungle temple and would advise anyone to go before tourism really takes off

What did you think of your group leader?

Ly was fantastic, he was very informative and had a great sense of humour. He was well organised, friendly and his 'shit stories' on the coach lightened several long coach rides.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Never underestimate a sand fly!! Although I fully DEET-ed up at every opportunity, these little gits left a couple of us looking like we had smallpox after a trip to the beach!! Also, don't worry about taking Cambodian Riel- everywhere takes dollars.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Battambang bamboo train was a definite highlight, so much fun and the closest to feeling like Indiana Jones I've ever come. Don't miss the cyclo tour of Phnom Penh or Siem Reap bats either!

Cambodian Adventure

This trip gave us the opportunity to experience urban and rural Cambodia. It was not just about the major attractions like Angkor Wat,but also less visited places such as Koh Kong. With just 5 people in the group it was easy to organise ourselves and our tour leader Rous was always great company, ensuring we were enjoying what we were doing and offering us lots of local Cambodian foods.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Our visit to Bantreay Srey was a delight. Although other temples were awesome in their size and complexity it was this temple that was a highlight. The intricacy of the relief work and the attention to detail was amazing. We were very glad that this was part of the itinerary and not just the bigger temples.

What did you think of your group leader?

Rous was so much fun and a great ambassador for her country. She was knowledgeable about its past and the sadness of its recent history, but full of optimism for its future. This was such an important cultural message to impart. She was caring and considerate, making sure we could comfortably complete the bicycle rides when some of us weren't feeling very well. Rous often stopped the mini-bus so we could try new foods, see how foods were prepared, exposing us to all things Cambodian, that we otherwise would miss out on.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

We visited Cambodia in late October, when the weather on the south coast was still quite wet. Because of the humidity an umbrella is of more use than a plastic poncho (you sweat less). Apply the bugspray (Rous's words) before you think you need it. Just put it on before venturing out, like putting on your shoes. Take as little as possible - 3 of everything is enough. Just handwash more often. We fitted everything into 40L backpacks. Any walking we did, did not require hiking boots and we didn't take any gear specifically for the cycling we did.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This was a very enjoyable trip because of its diversity. Going west to Koh Kong gave us an opportunity to see a little of regional Cambodia- the Cardamon mountains and the mangrove sanctuary were a welcome respite from the pace of Phnom Penh. Angkor Wat and other temples were stunning and are probably reason enough to go to Cambodia. Travelling with a small group has many benefits , as does having a local tour leader who is part of the country you are visiting.

Cambodia Adventure

A great itinerary encompassing the busy yet cultured capital, the relaxed feel of coastal Kampot and Kep, colonial Battambang and the sheer size of majestic Angkor Wat. Fantastic food too throughout, surpassed only by the ever-smiling, friendly locals.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Visiting Angor Wat - far more extensive and varied than I'd been expecting, made all the more memorable by seeing it over two days, one by bike which was a superb way to get a true feel for the place and its atmosphere.

What did you think of your group leader?

A fine ambassador for his country, Sokkim transmitted a graceful serenity which made us all feel at ease with him, sure in the knowledge of his ability to calmly overcome any challenges and provide us with whatever information or help we needed in a measured and warm manner. True to his principles, he was ever keen to ensure we got the most from our time in Cambodia, as well as striving for the best for his compatriots and homeland.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Cambodia may not be the first country to spring to mind for a visit in the region, but the variety of experiences there and warm welcome certainly make it a recommendation. Angkor Wat alone justifies going, but there is so much more to warrant spending more time there.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The surprise that is Cambodia.

We saw parts of Cambodia we wouldn't have thought of visiting. Some of the less frequented parts were the most beautiful, especially the area around Kampot. Cycling is definitely a good way to see the countryside and how the people live. Thankfully we were acclimatised to the heat by the time we started cycling!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Some of the less frequented temples in the Angkor Wat complex give you time to just sit quietly and think without hoards of tourists.

What did you think of your group leader?

Mr Bun was extremely passionate and Knowledgable about his country. He managed to cope with varying requests and situations with patience and good grace.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

A certain level of fitness is required. Make sure you take appropriate footware for walking through the jungle. Be aware that whilst the hotels were better than anticipated, they may not all be up to European standards.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This trip showed us a side of Cambodia that we were not fully aware of. No number of guide books can prepare you for the impact that this country's history has had on the present generation.

Cambodian Adventure

A really great holiday, with a lovely group of people and an excellent guide. Pheap and his driver Mr Ouch showed us with pride their beautiful country. Recovering from terrible events in the 70's Cambodia is now opening up to tourism and has much to offer.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

No one thing, but of course the size and grandeur of Angkor Watt which was amazing. Then on a totally different scale, the Genocide Museum, which was hard to visit and accept, but had to be done. Throughout the trip the Cambodian people were smiling and welcoming.

What did you think of your group leader?

Pheap was an excellent guide and leader. Always available with a smile, lots of information and of course his singing voice, a song for every city we visited! He is an asset to Exodus. Every time we left or returned to the coach we were offered drinking water. It was lovely when we stopped at roadside markets etc and he would buy things for us to taste, some with more success than others!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

This trip is quite busy, although there is a free day. Some of our group then did a waterfall/trek, while others took a boat trip to a "tropical" island. The journey there and back took over 2 hours each way, and although the island and the lunch we ate there was lovely, we didn't enjoy the visit of sand flies. Many of us got bitten very badly. The food throughout was varied and tasty, we loved the bargain priced cocktails, especially at happy hour. The hotels were all very acceptable and the excellent wi fi connection was a welcome surprise.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would recommend this tour to anyone who loves the diversity and challenge of a visit to Asia! The bike rides were well managed and although quite tough in temperatures of around 35c, there were plenty of stops and the bikes were good. Both rides are around 30 km or so.

Dates & Prices

Please provide as much information as possible below so we can best help with your holiday requirements.

Fields with * are mandatory.

Please provide as much information as possible below so we can best help with your holiday requirements.

Fields with * are mandatory.

An overview of flight options

Exodus is committed to making joining our tours as easy as possible, wherever you live. We generally only block book seats from London, but this certainly does not mean that you need to fly from there. Depending on the route and airlines available, there will usually be various options available for those who want to fly from their local airport.

This page aims to provide a useful overview of the options available to our clients. However, the best flight arrangements should be tailored to your personal requirements, so please contact our Sales team for expert advice.

What kind of options do I have ?

1. We can book for you: Flights from anywhere in the world - not via London

Depending on the route, this may be direct or via an overseas hub like Amsterdam, the Middle East or elsewhere. On short haul routes there may be direct flights with low cost airlines, charter flights or scheduled airlines. Exodus can book most, but not all, of these for you. The most appropriate airline may be different to that which we use for the group flight from London, but many people now travel on different airlines and meet up with their fellow passengers at the destination.

Pros

Cons

May be the most direct route

Often the extra fare compared to the London flight is minimal.

As you will be in the hands a single airline for your entire journey, the airline will be responsible for your bags and your connections.

You may not be able to join the group transfers. However, we can usually arrange private transfers, or book your flights to try and coincide with the group transfers. See notes on transfer arrangements below.

2. We can book for you: Connecting flights from your local airport to London

Exodus can book connecting flights to London so you can join the group flight there. Connecting times will be followed according to airline advice, or as requested by clients. There are two types of fares we can use for this option: a 'through-fare' or a 'published fare'.

a) A 'through-fare' is where you will be in the main airline's care throughout. You change planes, but your bags are checked all the way through to your final destination.

b) A 'published fare' ticket is completely seperate from your onward ticket from London. It is usually cheaper than a through-fare but will need to be paid for and issued as soon as it is booked. This can be a problem if your tour has not yet reached minimum numbers. On 'published fares' neither airline is aware that you have connecting flights, so Exodus is responsible for timing your connection, not the airlines involved. The tickets are also usually non changeable and non refundable.

Pros

Cons

Depending on the fare type, Exodus or the airline is responsible for flight connections.

Through fare tickets can be expensive.

On a published fare, tickets must be issued immediately; tickets on published fares can be very difficult to change if onward flight times change; bags are not checked though to your final destination.

Published fares are non-refundable.

3. Booking some or all of the flights yourself

You can also book connecting air travel yourself, either to London, or all the way to the start point. There may be certain airlines or routes we don't have access to, so this is always an option. However, if you make your own travel arrangements you become liable for any delays, cancellations or missed connections, and Exodus is not required to offer refunds if you have trouble reaching the start of your trip.

Pros

Cons

You might find cheaper fares, or routes not available to Exodus.

You are responsible for any delays or missed connections, and the cost of the tour is not protected should you miss your flight be cancelled.

Notes on transfer arrangements

Sometimes it is possible to travel on a different airline to the group flight from London. Where this is the case, we need to think about ensuring you meet up with the group with minimum extra cost and hassle.

On certain trips, it is easy to arrive on a different flight and still meet the group at the hotel with time in hand. We can usually arrange private transfers (at extra cost) or offer advice on taking a taxi to the start hotel.

On other trips (especially in Europe), the transfer meets the group flight and then travels some distance to the first night's accommodation. Where this is the case, our Sales team will try to arrange flights that arrive before (and depart after) the group. However, we do have to make it clear in your final documentation that if your flights are delayed, the transfer cannot wait for you. While Exodus or our local operators will do what we can to help you reach the start point of the tour, any additional costs must be paid by the client.

Many of the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. But ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services listed on this website. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected. Please see our booking conditions for information, or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate If you book arrangements other than an ATOL protected flight or a package holiday, the financial protection referred to above does not apply. Our ATOL number is 2582 and our ABTA number is Y0751.

The Foreign & Commonwealth Office and the NHS has up-to-date advice on staying safe and healthy abroad. For more on security, local laws, plus passport and visa information, see https://travelaware.campaign.gov.uk